Louisiana is known for its Cajun culture and superb cuisine. It has even been said that the state is known for its people. Louisianans are often considered the life of the party. The southern region, itself, is known for Bourbon Street’s nightlife, seafood, hand grenades, Mardi Gras, and second lines. While all those are key components in the South Louisiana experience, there is so much more to our boot-shaped state that you haven’t heard about.
Being a Black Southern Belle from South Louisiana, I happen to have a few attractions that may not have hit your radars. In today’s post, I am going to tell you guys about three hidden treasures that you may want to visit the next time you travel this way. The significance of these three noteworthy mentions is that they embody Louisiana culture and are exclusively black. By this, I mean that they are either black-owned, pro-black, or dedicated to the African American heritage. Without any further delay, let’s get into today’s top three.
First things first, Southern Belles love their food. Living in the city of Houma, roughly an hour outside of New Orleans, the local dining options are infinite. However, I think a great deal of locals would agree that the We Dat’s Food Truck currently reigns supreme in fried seafood combos and homemade chicken wing assortments. Starting out as a local food truck, We Dat’s is quickly becoming a New Orleans staple. Found at 1407 Canal Street, the restaurant has attracted a ton of locals and tourists. From OWN’s Queen Sugar cast members to the New Orleans Pelicans’ Anthony Davis, several big names frequent the establishment for their signature dishes. Whether you want a shrimp basket, wrap, or an order of wings, We Dat’s never disappoints. Not to mention, it is a Black-owned business. How perfect is that?
For those looking for a historical site, the Finding Our Roots African American Museum has recently opened in Houma and is making quite the impression on both tourists and locals. The venue showcases black history in Terrebonne, Lafourche, and a few other surrounding parishes, exclusively. Serving the community as more than just a historical site, the museum is an educational tool. The Finding Our Roots African American Museum offers information about our heritage that cannot be found in books. Thus, making it an ideal “must-see” for readers with small children.
My last noteworthy place to visit would have to be Southern University in Baton Rouge. Honey, nobody does it like our local HBCU. From the tailgates to the Bayou Classic showdown, the Jaguar Nation never disappoints. Typically held in the month of October, SU’s Homecoming Week is never anything short of eventful. It is impossible not to enjoy the atmosphere, academia, and history of the campus. One visit will have you saying, “I don’t know, but I’ve been told that the streets in heaven are blue and gold.”
I hope you enjoyed today’s post and be sure to check out the spots I mentioned on your next trip to Louisiana.
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Meah Johnson is a law student & lifestyle blogger. Her work has been featured on Black Southern Belle, in addition to being a contributor to Urban Social TV.
You can catch more posts from her on BLACK GIRL TODAY. The site, curated by Johnson, acts as a comprehensive magazine, accommodating the vast interests of creative, millennial women.
Meah can be found on all social media platforms @themeahjay. Her website can also be found @blackgirltoday.
